A dental veneer procedure is a popular cosmetic procedure. Porcelain is known as one of the best materials for aesthetic dental procedures, because it mimics tooth enamel very closely. Veneers are extremely thin (usually less than 0.5 mm thickness), giving them an enamel-like translucence creating a natural appearance. They are about as thick as a contact lens or a fingernail. In many cases, tooth preparation requires very little tooth alteration. Veneers are an excellent treatment for teeth with enamel abrasion or enamel erosion, and are aesthetically pleasing at the same time!

Porcelain veneers are attached to your teeth using a dental bonding glue or cement. Although veneers are very thin, once bonded to your teeth they become strong. The process is fast and conservative. First, your teeth are prepared and impressions are sent to a dental laboratory along with the design for your new smile. Veneers may be recommended along with other cosmetic procedures in order to produce optimal results.

While they are an effective solution for some dental issues, they do have a set lifespan. Porcelain veneers can be expected to last about 10 to 15 years, after which they need to be replaced. Fortunately, by properly caring for them, there are a variety of ways that people can extend the life of their porcelain veneers.So, what are some of the things you can do to keep them last longer? Here are some suggestions.

Take Care of Porcelain Veneers Like Original Teeth
Use a soft bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the porcelain veneers. Dental veneers are very durable, but still susceptible to damage if they are not properly cared for. Although porcelain veneers are stain-resistant, the adhesive that bonds them to your teeth is not. So, avoid eating and drinking substances that are known for staining teeth, such as coffee, red wine, tea and soft drinks.

Floss to keep your gums healthy
Build up of plaques will make gums to swell and the gum lines to recede. More the gum lines recede, more the edges of the porcelain veneers get exposed. This will affect how natural your veneers look and further work will be needed to rectify the situation. So, keep flossing. A water pick will also be a good method if you don’t like using a string floss.

Quit Smoking and Chewing Tobacco
People who smoke are more susceptible to contracting gum disease because of the bacteria that cigarettes introduce into their mouths. Also, tobacco causes severe discoloration in teeth. It is very difficult and costly to clean and remove the stains from the porcelain veneers. In severe cases you will have to replace them altogether.

Be Gentle
Hard toothbrush bristles, harsh toothpastes, and other products can wreak havoc on dental veneers, including stripping the polish off your veneers. Use soft toothbrushes, gentle toothpastes, and delicate motions when cleaning your teeth.

Avoid eating hard food
Eating hard candies or nuts will increase the chance of damaging the porcelain veneers. Dental veneers are more easily chipped, so crunching down on hard nuts or candies can end up causing damage.

Do Not Grind Your Teeth
Gritting, grinding, or chattering your teeth is a great way to damage your regular teeth, but even more so for veneers. Avoid doing anything which will cause damage to your teeth in this way. So, ask your hygienist or dentist for a night mouth guard. We recommend it very highly.

Please ask our front office manager for any questions you might have or contact our office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Hahn today.

Financial District Dental Care
Dr. Raymond C. Hahn, DDS
415.433.1970